Mid Sized Shanxi Red Lacquer Cabinet, 1890s

The deep reds and golds in this cabinet give it a lovely, rich look that would bring the wow factor into any interior. The cabinet is from Shanxi province in China and is typical of the beautiful, decorative furniture produced there. Gold leaf was traditionally applied over a painted base in a technique known as 'miao jin' to highlight designs that would commonly include landscapes or scenes from Chinese legend. The decoration here is of landscapes in the background, with cherry trees to the front.

Often, as in sections here, the gold leaf wore over time to show only the dark outline below. Many cabinets were also retouched decades later and it is likely that the gold here, at least in parts, has been restored or painted over at some point. Certainly there is considerable wear around the bottom panel and feet, but this adds to the original character of the cabinet. The gold coloured, brass hardware is also likely to be a recent replacment for the original, but fits perfectly with the rich colours of the cabinet.

There is a single removable shelf inside, along with a removable board over the bottom section, creating a 'hidden' storage compartment. Perfect for unusual bedroom storage, or perhaps as a drinks cabinet, this is a real statement piece to bring a luxurious warmth and colour into any space.